As WWE heads into 2026, sweeping changes are essential if the organization hopes to reverse fading momentum and capture fans’ enthusiasm again. With WWE 2026 changes and improvements at the forefront, adjustments ranging from creative storytelling and talent management to pricing and presentation could define the brand’s future trajectory.
SmackDown’s Top Stars and Storylines Require Revitalization
In 2025, Friday Night SmackDown’s main event atmosphere has struggled, most notably in its men’s division where recent rivalries failed to build excitement. The much-anticipated transformation of John Cena into a villain did not make the desired impact, leaving a lackluster feud between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre as the centerpiece. The women’s main event scene fared little better, with WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton losing her title to Jade Cargill, who then failed to ignite any major rivalries or meaningful storylines in the months following her victory.
WWE must urgently rework both divisions’ focus to stimulate audience interest. Potential solutions include transferring big stars from RAW to SmackDown—possible names like LA Knight, Seth Rollins, Roxanne Perez, or Logan Paul—or elevating proven talent from NXT to breathe new life into the show. Engaging main event stories and a robust roster are critical components that need attention if WWE wants to recover ground at the blue brand.
Premium Live Events Should Prioritize Matches Over Commercials
The structure of WWE’s Premium Live Events (PLEs), once the highlight of wrestling fans’ calendars, has changed notably. Traditionally, PLEs (and earlier PPVs) would feature seven to eight matches tightly packed into three hours. This approach ensured dynamic pacing and offered a platform for a variety of performers. Under Triple H’s creative direction, the match count sometimes drops as low as four, seldom reaching six, with lengthy segments dedicated instead to advertising and celebrity features.
This new format was evident at WrestleMania 41, where advertising, celebrity cameos, and extended video packages often displaced wrestling action. For fans attending live in the arena or watching at home, these delays contribute to a less compelling experience. There is a growing call among fans for WWE to trim ad breaks and boost the number of marquee bouts, refocusing attention where it belongs—on the athletes and the matches.
NXT Call-Ups: Fresh Talent Should Move to the Main Roster
Several NXT wrestlers, now seasoned beyond their developmental years, continue to compete on WWE’s third brand instead of making the jump to RAW or SmackDown. Names such as Jordynne Grace, Ethan Page, and Ricky Saints possess enough talent and momentum for bigger stages. Meanwhile, prospects like Trick Williams and Oba Femi have lingered in NXT long after proving their readiness for the major leagues.
This highlights a need for WWE to change its approach in 2026, ensuring that when a performer is ready, their transition to the main roster is swift and well-planned. Making room for NXT’s rising stars on RAW or SmackDown not only prevents stagnation in NXT but also keeps the main shows fresh and engaging with new storylines and rivalries.
Addressing Escalating WWE Ticket Prices for Fans
Fueled by high demand and business strategy, WWE under TKO raised ticket prices dramatically in recent years, frequently breaking records for event gates. However, the cost for even the least expensive seats—sometimes hundreds of dollars for WrestleMania 42 or standard weekly events—now deters many families and lifelong fans.
This scenario has led to a noticeable dip in attendance trends. If these price points persist, WWE could see a further decrease in live show engagement as fans and families become priced out of participating. Adjusting ticket pricing will be crucial in 2026 if WWE hopes to maintain and grow its loyal audience base.
Tapping Into Creative Storytelling Beyond the Formula
WWE’s weekly programming has grown predictable, largely following a set formula: wrestler arrivals, a standard introduction, a scripted promo from a top villain or fan-favorite, and a main event organized impromptu—often culminating in a familiar brawl. While productive in maintaining structure, this style has caused a creative plateau, failing to deliver ground-breaking narratives or memorable characters throughout 2025.
Triple H, in charge of creative, is being called to challenge this routine by exploring new narrative forms and taking creative risks. Without more inventive storylines and dynamic progression, WWE risks entering the rut that previously plagued the brand under Vince McMahon, where every week appeared indistinguishable from the last. Revamping storytelling techniques and embracing variety will be essential to regain viewers’ excitement.
The Neglected Women’s United States Championship Needs Attention
The Women’s United States Championship on SmackDown stands as a glaring example of WWE creative’s shortcomings. The title scene saw brief and disappointing feuds featuring Giulia and Chelsea Green, with the majority of the year dominated by repetitive matches—mainly between Green and Michin—without significant developments or elevation of the title’s prestige.
Contrasting this is the Intercontinental Championship on RAW, which has consistently produced compelling matches and boosted the reputations of stars like Lyra Valkyria, Maxxine Dupri, and Becky Lynch. It is critical for 2026 that the Women’s United States Title receives improved booking—whether through enhanced storytelling or by introducing a dominant champion to elevate its status within the division. Without intervention, the risk is that this belt will fade into irrelevance.
Revamping WWE’s Presentation and Event Production
Fans have long requested the return of unique, custom stages for PLEs and PPVs—features that helped past events stand out and contributed to a special atmosphere. Despite logistical reasons, such as accommodating large crowds, WWE’s decision to standardize sets across events has made many shows feel visually repetitive.
Recent exceptions, like the Eiffel Tower-themed setup for WWE’s Paris event, proved that even simple customizations can enhance the viewing experience and make shows feel memorable. With attendance fluctuating and no logistical barriers, 2026 is the perfect moment for WWE to inject more creativity and variety into its arenas, echoing the innovation seen in earlier eras.
WWE’s course for 2026 will depend on its willingness to adapt; strengthening the roster, emphasizing wrestling over commercials, introducing dynamic tales, making events more affordable, and reviving presentation variety will all be pivotal. As WWE pursues these improvements, fans and industry watchers alike will be keenly observing how these changes shape the future of the wrestling powerhouse and its ongoing place at the center of sports entertainment.
